3 miles SE of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Inland from Carmel stretches Carmel Valley, where the wealthy retreat beyond the reach of the coastal fog and mist. It's a scenic, perpetually sunny valley of rolling hills dotted with manicured golf courses and many a tony pony ranch.
Hike the trails in Garland Regional Park, 8 miles east of Carmel on Carmel Valley Road (dogs are welcome off-leash). The sun bakes you here, so bring lots of water. Several resorts and courses in the valley offer golf -- notably Quail Lodge, 8205 Valley Green Dr. (tel. 888/828-8787 or 831/624-2888; www.quaillodge.com), and Rancho Cañada Golf Club, Carmel Valley Road (tel. 800/536-9459 or 831/624-0111; www.ranchocanada.com).
While you're in the area, taste the wines at the Château Julien Winery, 8940 Carmel Valley Rd. (tel. 831/624-2600; www.chateaujulien.com), open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm. Tours are available by reservation.
Carmel Valley Travel Experiences
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Napa Valley, San Jose, Big Sur
After climbing out of the 1300 year-old redwood trees, Arina and Seumas drilled the locals of Calistoga for where they could find REAL, s... Continue reading »
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Big Sur Coast - Days 47 and 48
So down the coast we went. And what a drive it was. Wow. If you've never done the Big Sur drive, it's a must. Our... Continue reading »
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Beautiful Carmel
We arrived in Carmel thinking that we would only stop for lunch in it, but liked it so much we decided to stay the night. It’s a smal... Continue reading »
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Getting Acquainted
Woke up to the sound of birds chirping outside my window and was off to a great start for the day. Packed up what little I had unpacked f... Continue reading »
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Wildlife Adventures at a State Park By the Sea
After my drive partway up the coast, I stopped at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, hoping my interagency pass would grant me a discount. It... Continue reading »
